I am not a Content Creator.

I am not a Content Creator; I am a Youtuber and a Digital Artist.

Some time ago now, I heard something that has stuck with me ever since. I couldn't find the video again, but there was this video I saw, on stories using Minecraft as their medium, of all things. The presenter voiced a concern regarding another creator- an artist, really- referring to her videos as "content". The reason being, there's a difference between "content" and "art". Art is...art. It's made with love, and it's made with passion. But content is just whatever you can put out that brings in the money.

This presenter reasoned that an artist seeing their work as "content" is a bad sign, or outright troubling, for this reason. And I agree. Youtube was founded on the slogan "Broadcast yourself". So I do. I make videos because I want to, not so I can one day unlock ad revenue or sponsor money. In fact, if I get the option, I intend to turn them down in favor of a better viewing experience. If someone really wants to support me, I have a kofi.

I can't place exactly why this segment of this silly minecraft video has stuck with me, but I think the gist is clear. I may always be hurting for cash, but I do not make content. I make videos, and I make artwork. I make things with love. 🙂

As such, I have long avoided using the term "content" in reference to people or their creations. I only make an exception for content mills- channels that post not for the love of creation, but for the revenue. I think y'all should do the same!